Head in the Clouds
Release Date:
September 17, 2004
Limited release
A love story that meanders through the Spanish Civil War and World War II, Head in the Clouds is a love story about three characters whose lives intersect during a period that takes place over 14 years.
The plot starts with 18-year-old Guy Malyon accepting a scholarshop to attend Cambridge University. While there, he has a wildly passionate affair with a fellow student named Gilda Bessé. This stunning woman (portrayed by former Monster Charlize Theron) is aristocratic and gorgeous, but also extremely hedonistic.
As time moves on, Gilda is developing a burgeoning career as a photographer, while Guy is a schoolteacher. The two of them share an apartment in Paris with Mia (Penelope Cruz), a Spanish refugee. When the winds of war begin to stir in the air, Gilda nonetheless stubbornly attempts to maintain her budding career and her self-gratifying lifestyle. Guy and Mia, on the other hand, feel it their duty to join the fight against fascism, perhaps separating the friends forever. Beyond the war, there's an even more dangerous secret that may tear them apart.
Along with Theron and Cruz, the third member of the triangle is the outstanding young actor Stuart Townsend. After being replaced by Viggo Mortensen in the role of Aragorn, Townsend's been primarily involved in indie productions such as this one (with the exception of the god-awful, big-budget League of Extraordinary Gentlemen). With Theron fresh off an Academy Award winning performance, this film is sure to attract those who are curious to see if she can continue her streak. (Kim Hollis/BOP)